Non ANSI hi vis clothing — bright vests, shirts and jackets that have not been tested and certified to ANSI/ISEA 107 — is acceptable where no rule, contract or hazard assessment requires certified high-visibility apparel. Typical examples are indoor warehouses without vehicle traffic, events and volunteer work, visitor identification, cycling and walking, and promotional giveaways. It is not acceptable for workers in the right-of-way of public roads, in traffic control zones, or anywhere a site rule or contract specifies an ANSI class.
Certified vs Non-Certified: What Is the Difference?
| Factor | ANSI/ISEA 107 certified | Non-certified |
|---|---|---|
| Background fabric | Tested for colour and luminance, including after light exposure | Looks bright; not tested |
| Reflective tape | Tested for retroreflection, including after washing | May be economy tape or PVC film |
| Areas and layout | Minimum areas and placement for the class | Any layout |
| Label | Standard, type, class, size and care | No class information |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
When Non-ANSI Is Usually Fine
- Event staff, marshals and volunteers away from live traffic
- Visitor and contractor identification inside buildings
- Promotional vests and fleet emergency kits (check local vehicle rules)
- Schools, clubs and community groups
- Recreational walking, running and cycling
When You Need Certified Hi Vis
- Work in the right-of-way of federal-aid highways (23 CFR 634 requires ANSI/ISEA 107 Class 2 or 3)
- Temporary traffic control and flagging under the MUTCD
- Construction sites with traffic control or heavy equipment
- Any contract, tender or site rule that names a class
- Outside the US: equivalent rules referencing EN ISO 20471, CSA Z96 or AS/NZS 4602.1
For the US rules in more detail, see our guide to hi vis clothing regulations.
What About ANSI Class 1?
Class 1 is the lowest ANSI performance class, for Type O (off-road) garments worn where workers are not exposed to roadway traffic. It is certified apparel, just with smaller minimum areas. For warehouses and car parks, a Class 1 garment is often a sensible step up from non-certified vests.
From Our Factory Floor
Since 2004 we have made both certified and non-certified garments. To prevent mix-ups:
- We label non-certified vests clearly so they are not issued as PPE.
- We pack certified and non-certified stock in separately marked cartons.
- We tell buyers when an economy specification will not meet a class, before production.
FAQ
Is a non-ANSI vest unsafe?
It still improves visibility compared with dark clothing, but its performance has not been proven to a standard, and it may fade or lose reflectivity faster.
How can I tell if a vest is ANSI certified?
Check the label for ANSI/ISEA 107, the type and the class.
Are non-ANSI vests cheaper to buy in bulk?
Yes. They suit events, visitors and promotions where certification is not needed.
Request a Quote
Tell us where the garments will be used, and we will recommend certified or non-certified options. See our reflective safety vest or contact our team.
This guide is general information from a hi vis clothing manufacturer. Always confirm the standard, class and site rules that apply to your work; the published standards are the final reference.
